Embrace Grace: Recent Episodes
Amy Ford
The Embrace Grace Podcast is a way for people around the world that is happening with Embrace Grace ministries. This program is hosted by Amy Ford and consists of candid in-studio recordings, audio blogs from the road and spontaneous guest from around the world (or around the house and office.)
In the last four years alone she has witnessed and experienced how corrupt our judicial system is, when she became a victim of police-perpetrated violence at the hands of her ex-boyfriend, who is a law enforcement officer. In the middle of the night she had to escape to another state for her safety and has been forced to live in hiding ever since. Including having to take various safety precautions because the government continues to protect him by operating under the “Blue Code of Silence“. Though the more her story is told and heard, the more power she takes back from him and the sooner she can safely come out of hiding.
October 23rd will mark 1,500 days of her living in hiding. Though despite her circumstances she has tried to make the best out of her unfathomable situation. She has since gone back to school to further her education. Majoring in Criminal Justice and minoring in Psychology, so she can better help other victims and survivors like herself. She recently graduated in May 2017.
Because of all that she has endured through out her life, it has helped her to realize that her true calling is to be an Inspirational Speaker so she can educate and spread awareness on these issues, while being an advocate for others who have faced similar traumas like herself. The injustices she has faced have given her the passion and perseverance to fight every day for other survivors voices to be heard, while never forgetting the victims whose voices have forever been silenced through murder. Her story and all that she has suffered at the hands of others is not in vain, God is making beauty from ashes.
Today she speaks on all the issues mentioned above and travels through out the country using her story to inspire others to “make a difference one day, one life at a time”. Her story is having an impact garnering followers and attention both nationally and internationally. She has been published by six organizations/media outlets within the last seven months. Her story is both versatile and applicable to any audience and platform.
Witlee Ethan is not just a survivor, but more importantly a warrior for others, standing up in the fight against violence and injustice. Her story is one of hope, forgiveness, healing, redemption, unwavering faith, and God’s grace. Which is the message she wants to share with others! She will be the first one to tell you, that it is through her faith alone that she has survived, and because of her relationship with Jesus Christ, she is thriving and she wants to help others to do the same!
Join Amy as she chats with Alexis about a new ministry the Trujillo's have launched - Hope Wins. Their mission is to walk alongside families who have experienced the loss of a child and provide care and comfort when they need it most.
Alexis story of loss and courage is inspiring to all who listen!
Join Amy as she chats with her friend Lindsay Huckins about overcoming fear of man and the disapproval of others and how we can face our fears so that they lose their power over us. Lindsay, mom of 5 kids and blogger, shares how God is working in her heart on WHO she is and how to have confidence!
You can follow Lindsay and her awesome blog here.
For most of Dana Sellars’ life, feelings of rejection lingered in her heart, intensifying at some times and allowing her reprieve at others. But she could never shake the feeling of being unwanted or the fear of not belonging. As an adult, an off-the-cuff conversation with her parents revealed a shocking truth that would lead her down a path of discovery and healing. This captivating and encouraging book details what family truly means, how to look past old hurts and forward into new possibilities, and what happens when we choose to face difficult circumstances with a spirit of reconciliation, redemption, and reunion.
Join Amy as she chats with her friend Dana about her new book, When Blood Matters: How I Unearthed the Root of Rejection and Discovered what Family Really Means.
You can purchase Dana's book today on Amazon here!
We are WIRED FOR FREEDOM and Sarah's story reminds us so clearly how God has placed His spirit inside of us so we can walk in authority and victory! We love overcomer stories and Sarah is one of our favorites!
For 13 years Sarah battled self-injury. Labeled as a “good Christian girl,” she still felt worthless, ugly, crazy and alone. One night, she SHARED HER STORY with a young girl and her life was forever CHANGED. This girl shared the same struggle — she WASN'T ALONE! God began to heal and EMPOWER Sarah through her testimony, but it wasn’t enough for her to stop hurting myself. She needed an outlet.
Learning to crochet helped her develop patience with herself. Not long after, she discovered using wire as art and embarked on her JOURNEY with Wired for Freedom. Naturally, she used herself as a model for her jewelry creations and soon started receiving custom orders. She began to find VALUE in herself but often thought of quitting. As her gift developed, she went for it, and Wired for Freedom (wf) was created. As a designer, she has an outlet for self-expression through the creation of custom pieces, which also allows customers the same experience. Though once terrified to share her story, she now does so nearly every day. Today, she thanks GOD for setting her FREE and continues to use hdf hands to CREATE instead of destroy. She has learned that through her story and art, she can help others become WIRED FOR FREEDOM.
To shop Sarah's Etsy shop, click here!
** Stay tuned for an Embrace Grace exclusive line coming soon!
Have you ever felt stuck in life and feel like you are wandering without any mission or purpose in your life?
Join Amy as she chats with her friend Kathy Boyle on a new dream idea that has recently become a reality - U University and a Personal Development Center. They want to see the world flourish in every area of their lives, both personally and professionally. They help individuals uncover their true Identity, Purpose, and Passion, which allows them to be the very best in all that they do; as well as seek to accomplish.
Tune in to hear how you can connect to their program - from anywhere in the nation! www.pdcnow.com
Testimonies and Dreams are our favorite!
And when you combine the two: An Embrace Grace alumni sharing her story of two unplanned pregnancies and how God's grace swept her off her feet at the most perfect time in her life and now she is married and dreaming about a big idea that she can't wait to share with you!
Join Amy as she chats with Olivia Hamp about The Canvas Place and how God is drawing a new idea on the canvas of her heart that will change her entire community!
Click here for more information about The Canvas Place and how you can support their big dream!
Join Amy as she chats with her friend, Kimberly Holmes about her devotional book, Single But Not Alone.
Whether you are divorced, widowed, or have just found yourself parenting your child alone, this book is here to help. Even if you are married, Single But Not Alone shows you how to pray over yourself and your child. Through the power of these short prayers, you will find encouragement, strength and healing for you, and your child. Instead of hurt leading the hurt, you can purpose to walk in freedom from the past and into your own place of restoration.
We can stand whole and intercede for our children!
Grab your copy today on Amazon here!
We are so excited about the upcoming Declare Conference! Declare is a Christian conference to equip and encourage women bloggers, writers, artists, online marketers, leaders, and disciplers to know God and make Him known through deep community.
Join Amy as she chats with Kristin about all the fun and amazing moments to expect at Declare. Their heart is to bring together women who share a desire to use their God-given giftings to point others to Jesus.
Also to connect speakers and leaders with attendees to equip them with the latest in writing, speaking, blogging, social media marketing, and technical teachings.
And finally, to encourage attendees in their personal spiritual growth, drawing them nearer to God and inspiring them to make Him known.
Whether you are a veteran as a digital evangelist or just now feeling the leading of God to use your voice as a light online, this is the place for you!
For information, schedule and to purchase tickets, check out their website www.DeclareConference.com - and Embrace Grace will be there!
As a mom in the throes of parenting, Courtney DeFeo believes that instilling virtues in children start with laughter, not lecture. That perspective propelled her to create an idea-packed book, in which she offers motivating reflections, real-life stories, and a sandbox full of inventive ways to help you turn your kids' hearts toward God.
Join Amy as she chats with her friend Courtney about how to capture the hearts of our kids through FUN - so they experience the goodness of Christ, the joy of following Him, and the difference they can make in the lives of others.
Purchase Courtney's book, In This House We will Giggle, Making Virtues, Love and Laughter a Daily Part of Your Family Life and check out her Adorable Scripture Cards!
If you missed our live podcast through facebook live last week, tune into the podcast this week! Tracy and Amy discussed a viral news story that has been circulating the past few weeks about a brave mom named Maddi Runkles that found out she was pregnant her senior year in high school. She attends a small private Christian school and because of their rules, decided the proper punishment would be for Madi to not walk across the stage for her graduation.
Tune in to hear our perspective and thoughts on stories and scenarios like this - honoring everyone involved of course!
Here is original story about Maddi posted in the NY Times but has now circulated thru various news sources. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/20/us/teen-pregnancy-religious-values-christian-school.html?_r=0
Tune in with Amy as she chats with her friend Jackie Drew about their company, Rad Joy! They make beautiful crosses that have so much symbolism and beauty. It's not just a purchase, it is an experience! The mission of Rad Joy is to further God’s kingdom by encouraging others to deepen their relationship with Christ through a life surrendered. Through their growing, excelling, falling down, getting up, trusting, clinging to Jesus, and surrendering, they are learning to experience Radical Joy!
Hear the story of how the Drew's had bold faith and stepped out to start this business that changes lives!
For more info about Rad joy or to watch their commercial - click here!
Jessica Russo is on staff with Embrace Grace and also leads her own group at Gateway Church. Tune in to hear her amazing story of hope and redemption (and healing) after an abortion! We heard so many amazing stories at Pink Impact of women hurting after an abortion but God was healing their hearts. We are in awe of all that God has done in his ladies hearts!
Join Amy as she chats with Barney Paradise about how God transformed his life from drug deals to being an overcomer. His mission now is to leave a legacy of LOVE for his family and for the next generation! You will be inspired by this story!
Be inspired and encouraged as you listen to how Sarah is an overcomer! Having an unplanned pregnancy and as a single mom, she defied the odds against her and put herself through school and even danced and cheered for the New Orleans Saintsations! God never left her or took His hand from her as he cared for her and her baby. She is an overcomer and is now excited to start her own Embrace Grace group in Hattiesburg, Mississippi at her home church so she can share her story and help give moms the encouragement they need to never give up on their dreams!
Stories are our favorite!
Tune into the podcast show today and listen as Amy chats with her friend Lauren Bentham about her story of an unplanned pregnancy 15 years ago. God changed her life and now she is using her influence and platform through the Mrs. Texas pageant to raise awareness for Embrace Grace!
Be inspired and encouraged!
Need a quick refreshing dive into grace, daily? Are you feeling dry in your spiritual life? Looking for a fresh perspective of hope? Join Amy as she chats with Dana Pollard about her new book, 21 Day Grace Challenge: Immerse Yourself in Rest, Healing and Hope through the Finished Work of the Cross Devotional.
In this 21 day devo, you’ll read stories of grace and how you can be refreshed and apply it to your life. Here’s what you’ll receive daily: • Stories of grace bringing rest, healing, and hope. • Scripture Meditation to immerse your mind. • Grace Challenges to take action in prayer with the Lord.
Grab your book today on Amazon.
Join Amy as she chats with her friend Tricia about ten financial principles that coincide with the Ten Commandments of the Bible. There is so much to learn about God’s principles for managing money and the pattern that leads to the abundant life Christ has provided!
For the entire principles in full form, you can listen in also on Gateway's website HERE.
Join Amy and Jake as they discuss even further what Raising Your Banner means and how we can change the world with LOVE! For more info on In This With You, go to http://inthiswithyou.org/
Tune into the podcast and listen to Amy Ford as she chats with her friend Syna about her testimony and beautiful real story of hope and courage rising after losing everything. Be inspired and encouraged - God can turn ashes into beauty!
The path to marital happiness is different than you think. When our plans for marriage improvement begin with ''If my husband would . . .'' or ''If, as a couple, we could . . .'' we're missing the secret.
Despite her man's flaws and failures, the Lord plans to bless a wife's marriage through her husband. Join Amy as she chats with author Jen Weaver about her new book release, A Wife's Secret to Happiness. In this book, Jen shares eleven powerful, practical blessings that God wants to pour into your lap like sweet spiritual confetti, and the wifestyle habits that will attract or reject this divine provision.
No matter your title--from stay-at-home mom to business executive to ministry leader--you can celebrate God's role for you as a wife and learn how to:
- Embrace vibrant marital roles without getting stuck in gender ruts
- Reduce stress and busyness by building intimacy and strength
- Boost love, support, and encouragement in your communication
- Deepen your spousal connection so you won't feel alone
- Restore dreams for your life with your spouse
Through thoughtful exploration of biblical promises, humorous hope-filled stories, and compelling testimonies, Jen shares how God empowers her life as a submissive millennial wife, and inspires readers to experience the same freedom.
To order this amazing book, click here!
Have you ever wondered how the Foster System works and had questions about how you might could be a foster family for a child in need?
Tune in to the podcast show and listen as Amy chats with Vicki Akins about her ministry for foster families called Chosen Ones. Currently, there are more than 400,000 children living in foster homes in the United States with over 31,000 children in foster care in Texas alone, many of whom have been abandoned or removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. Chosen Ones is dedicated to assisting current and future foster families by providing them resources to be successful.
Through Jesus we have access to the ancient paths of God. It is through the basics of who we are, who He is and what our relationship is together that we are restored and renewed. Join Amy as she chats with Paige Henderson, co-founder of the ministry Fellowship of the Sword. Hear about their ministry events that give you the opportunity to find rest for your souls as you intensely pursue God's heart in fresh and dynamic ways.
Marriages often don't make it. Despite the best intentions going in, couples often find themselves in a place of relational crisis at some point in their marriage. Lacking the tools to cultivate health, those marriages often fail. The solution for this epidemic isn't mere crisis intervention. We must equip singles to think differently about relationships and choosing a spouse. We must move beyond the normal criteria of attraction, shared faith and common interests and begin to intentionally leverage the dating season to demonstrate and discover the relational components that will actually build and sustain connection over time.
In this podcast, Alan and Nancy Smith introduce Self-Control, Honor and Vulnerability as the key attributes of healthy and sustainable relationships and talk to singles about how to powerfully and purposefully exercise wisdom in their pre-marriage season.
You can dive even deeper into Alan and Nancy's e-book, Finding the One: Thinking Differently About Choosing A Spouse - grab on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-One-Thinking-Differently-Choosing-ebook/dp/B00HAGY4D6
Join Amy as she chats with her friend and Pastor of Catch the Fire DFW, Nancy Smith about Women in Leadership! We love these quotes from a blog Nancy wrote:
"Instead of leaning on cultural mores for our way of doing things, let’s ask questions. Dig in. Discover what the Bible really says about women. Let’s invite women into the discussion; they have a little bit invested in that process, after all. Let’s begin to take the “neither male nor female” thing Paul talks about in Galatians 3:28 seriously, allowing women to become all—and I mean all—they are created to be.
And let’s create a safe environment in which they can become themselves. Let’s develop leaders of both genders, training them in Bible study (not just someone else’s Bible study, but how to really dig into the Word), leadership principles and communication skills, and then give them some opportunities to practice and grow in these skills.
Let’s call those women who are already functioning in their calling by the labels we would use for men: Leader. Apostle. Pastor. Preacher. Teacher. Elder. Prophet. Deacon. Let’s honor their calling, gifting and authority the way God does."
Tune into today's podcast for even more greatness from Nancy!
In the midst of trials, do you ever question God, and long for a real answer?
People are looking for real now more than ever before.
True answers to hard questions.
• How to have great faith?
• Why me?
• And, how to hold on to hope?
Join Amy as she discusses Kerrie's new book, For Real: Navigating the Truth through Trials. Kerrie helps us understand how to navigate through the turbulent seas of this life with great faith. She offers life-transforming insights how God will reveal His faithfulness and build our faith through each and every trial.
We suffer in this life, but inside each of us is an overcomer, that can grow from hurtful experiences, and be equipped and empowered to help others. And, along the way, to our destination, it will build great faith!
Come with us. Get on board, let’s journey to being-For Real.
We have another alumni testimonial. This one is so special because she saved her baby because of the Love in a Box program. She shared her story at Embrace Grace Annual Benefit Dinner last November. It's BEAUTIFUL! This might be one of our favorite podcasts ever in the history of Embrace Grace podcasts!
Please tune in and share with your friends! You will just love this!
"Love in a Box saved my baby. Embrace Grace saved me." - Madeline M.
When we have one of our very own alumni come in and share their story, that just makes our day - or even our week! Sweet Bekah did Embrace Grace a few years ago and has a powerful story of grace, love, and JOY!
Join Amy as she talks with Bekah about her story - from when they first met and her journey with Embrace Grace - and the birth of her sweet daughter JOY! And now she is married and in school and doing amazing! You will be so blessed by her story!
Tune into hear from the Co-Founder of Embrace Grace, Salina Duffy, and how God is dreaming down a new dream into her heart for Embrace Haven! Amy and Salina chat about this amazing new mission that is in the works as well as chatting about our "Words of the Year" for 2017! God is already moving this year and the team at Embrace Grace is ready for all that God has for us this year! We are so excited!
Tune in this week to hear an Embrace Grace testimonial of how a young mom with an unintended pregnancy thought her life was turned upside down but how God turned ashes into beauty. She now is the mother of a precious baby boy and is passionately pursuing God's will for her life. You will be inspired!
During an adoption process, there can be so many unknowns - so many hills and valleys. There are times when you see hope and you can see God working right before your very eyes, and then other times it seems like maybe God can't hear ... but later you see how God was working all along, even behind the scenes.
Join Amy as she chats with the new staff member of Embrace Grace, Ali Alltop! Ali is working as the Creative Director and is just what this organization needed. Ali shares about her role in the ministry as well as her recent adoption earlier this year of baby Miracle. It's an amazing story that you will not want to miss!
Tune in and share with your friends!
One of the most commonly asked questions in Embrace Grace and Life is, "How can I hear God?" With all of the distractions of the world, it's easy to find other things to drown out God's voice and replace with counterfeit. We desperately want to hear the one voice that matters the most.
Join Amy as she chats with her friend and author, Kerrie Oles about Hearing God. Kerrie teaches on Hearing God frequently at Gateway Church and shares about how we can disconnect from the world and connect into Jesus. There isn't a formula or secret code on how to talk to Him - He is creative in many ways on how we can hear His voice in our lives!
You can follow Kerrie and her travels at www.kerrieoles.com !
Women everywhere have been exploited and deceived into thinking "pro-choice" extends to the birthing room, giving them choices and options, but the truth is, women are maligned and abused in birth, by their doctors, by nurses, even by family. Women aren't getting the encouragement and affirmation deserved and so needed before, during, and after birth.
A Pro-Life ethic covers it all, from conception, to birth, to beyond. Doulas support women at the very beginning of their motherhood journeys, affirming, supporting, and educating. Being truly Pro-Life means supporting a birthing mother's choices and respecting her right to consent or refuse certain proceedures, not to be pressured into accepting substandard healthcare.
The USA has one of the highest maternal and fetal mortality rates in the developed world, and this is a travesty. Join Amy Ford as she chats with Cessilye Smith with Pro-Life Doulas and hear about how they stand up for change and education, promote evidence-based care, support the gestating, birthing, and new mom (and beyond!), and exhibit an All-Life Pro-Life ethic. They are truly inspiring on how they empower women!
Remnant Generation is a non-profit in Uganda, Africa that has a goal to see a generation of thriving, healthy, empowered, and God-fearing young people living out their full potential and their vision is to empower young people in Uganda with knowledge, information and skills that will enable them to make life-affirming and healthy choices. Tune in and hear Isaac Mukisa chat with Amy about what the Remnant Generation is doing in Africa and how they are on the front lines saving lives! They have a home for girls with unplanned pregnancies and they lead Embrace Grace within the home. Their heart to not only save babies but restore the hearts of the mommies is inspiring!
To see more about what Remnant Generation is doing, check out www.RemnantGeneration.org!
Join Amy as she chats with Jackie Fox, the author of the latest program from Embrace Grace - EMBRACE LIFE!
The Embrace Life program is a two semester program for young, single moms to provide hope and encouragement as well as help inspire them to draw close to God. Being a young mom can feel hard and overwhelming at times but providing community and support for single moms can make a huge impact on their life by cheering them on and reminding them that God has equipped them with everything they need to thrive and flourish through this season.
In Embrace Life, these moms will unearth their capabilities, passions and dreams they may have put behind them after having a baby. They will learn essential skills and character traits all great adventurers possess. They will build within their heart and spirit a confidence in embracing both the highs and lows of life, because they are designed and equipped to do so. And in attaining each purposeful and exciting piece of the journey, they will pass down a legacy to their children and generations to come of passionately following Jesus.
If you're interested in starting an Embrace Grace or Embrace Life group at your church, click here.
Have you ever gotten a scripture or heard a sermon at a time when you just KNEW that God was talking to you through it? You felt like He said it just for you. That’s what a “now” word feels like – a word of encouragement that was just what you needed right NOW. Maybe it was an encouragement to trust God with the difficult situation you were worried about, or maybe it was a push for you to step out into the new thing that had just been placed before you, but you were nervous to try, or maybe it was a word just to tell you how much God loves you so very much. God can use creative ways to love on His sons and daughters!
Join Amy as she discusses with her friend Gail Gause about what prophetic and a word of encouragement. They discus the new pro-love initiative by Embrace Grace called BloomWord.com. Bloomword is a place where you can go to receive a word of encouragement. We have a volunteer prayer team and staff that pray over every name that is submitted through our BloomWord.com website. After praying for you, they will send you a special word of encouragement – hand-picked just for you – via email that you can print and save forever. We want to bless you and share God’s love for you through these words of encouragement.
To get YOUR word of encouragement, just go to www.BloomWord.com and fill out the online form!
For more information about what the prophetic is, check out Pastor Jan Greenwoods blog on 10 Tips to Help You Grow Your Prophetic Gift and 5 Tips to Hear God's Voice - SO GOOD!
For too long we have looked for leadership lessons from experts who only believe in fifty percent of reality. As Christ followers we believe in both a visible material realm, and an invisible spiritual realm. We must stake our claim as those who live and walk in both the visible and invisible worlds simultaneously.
To lead the unique organism that is the body of Christ, whether in a church, a business or our families, true spiritual leadership must know how to navigate both of these realms, and in particular, understand the intersection between these two worlds. Knowing only how to impact the world we see may actually impair our ability to impact the world we do not see. If all of our knowledge and experience is from and about the visible world, we are operating half-blind as kingdom citizens.
Join Amy as she chats with Bob Hamp about how to LEAD differently. His latest book Think Differently, Lead Differently is that guidebook that points us toward the intersection of the material and spiritual realms, and teaches the important ideas and skills to lead in both.
Listen to podcast and share with your friends - and purchase his book here today!
Longing to be a good homemaker but not knowing if it’s even possible? (It is.)
Feeling like a failure amidst chaos and mess? (You’re not.)
Looking for motivation and inspiration at home but have no idea where to start? (I have some ideas.)
Then you will LOVE this podcast! And you NEED this e-book!
Dive in to a heart-wrenching conversation full of stories, evidences, questions and answers with the author of This Thing Called Home, Brooke Sailer. You will not be disappointed!
If home is chaos. If home is mess. If home is doubt and overwhelm. If home is defeat and failure. If home is despair, discouragement, and disappointment.
Let’s…
Rebuild a new framework.
Rewrite the narrative.
Construct a different layout.
Re-set the space.
Ponder a different theory.
You have choices.
You have options.
You aren’t as stuck as you think you are, and you are not hopeless.
You are just beginning.
You have permission to begin or begin again at home. Successful home-making, start to finish woven into real life home order and organizational strategies. It is a hopeful book and podcast for the woman who wants so badly to thrive at home. It’s a story of beginnings for beginners. Every word is brave, bringing possibilities to life straight from the mind of one busy mom.
Take a listen and share with your friends! And grab this e-book off of Amazon here.
As a board-certified neuropsychologist, Dr. Michelle Bengtson sees the devastation of depression. Early on, she practiced the most effective treatments and prescribed them for her clients. But when she experienced depression herself, she found that the treatments she had recommended were lacking. Her experience showed her the missing component in treating depression.
Join Amy as she chats with Dr. Bengtson about her brand new release, Hope Prevails. This book is written with deep compassion, blending Michelle's training and faith, to offer readers a hope grounded in God's love and grace. She helps readers understand what depression is, how it affects them spiritually, and what, by God's grace, it cannot do. The result is an approach that offers the hope of release, not just the management of symptoms.
For those who struggle with depression and those who want to help them, Hope Prevails offers hope for the future. Tune in today and forward to a friend that needs to hear this podcast! Purchase Hope Prevails today on Amazon!
We interrupt our weekly podcasts to bring a special podcast just for Pregnancy Center Staff & Volunteers, as well as Maternity Home Staff!
Amy has taught workshops at conferences titled "Strengthening Church Relationships" and is now doing a special podcast for you to share with your staff. In this show, you will hear about great topics such as:
• How can centers/orgs benefit from church relationships?
• How can pregnancy centers/orgs strengthen church relationships?
• Which pastor is best to connect with?
• What are bridge building ministries that can help pro-life centers/orgs partner with churches?
• What is Love in a Box?
This is a 45 minute podcast full of helpful information that you can share with your staff and volunteers!
Hope Mommies™ is a 501(c)3 non-profit Christian organization who sole purpose is to come alongside moms and families who have experienced infant loss, bringing comfort, encouragement, companionship, and hope as they continue to walk this side of eternity without their beloved son or daughter. Their vision is to help every family who experiences infant loss find community, grief resources and ultimately the Hope of Christ which is our unfailing anchor.
Join Amy as she chats with another AMY - Amy Munoz - the Dallas area Director of Hope Mommies about her personal and moving story of her daughter's life that ended before she had a chance to get to know her. Be inspired and hope-filled as you hear how their is hope even in the midst of seasons of grieving and loss and hear how we can be a friend to a close friend or family member that may experience a similar story.
To check out more about Hope Mommies or to order a Hope Box for a friend, go to www.HopeMommies.org!
Now is a good time to become yourself, to discover your God-created, God-connected true self. Now is a good time to Think Differently about things that ruled your life. Don’t let the actions of others, experiences of the past, or current circumstances prevent you from living in the peace and power for which you are made. Learn to Live Differently as you connect to the Ever-present God so that you might be the ever intended you!
“The drive for freedom is like our appetite, like hunger, unconscious and automatic, like blinking your eyes when someone strikes out at you.”
We all desire freedom. But it’s the definition of freedom we all seem to get lost in. The battle is in our attempts to accurately define so that we can effectively pursue this thing we so desire.
Join Amy as she chats with her friend Bob Hamp about his book, Think Differently Live Differently. They talk about how it is far too often, our thought processes hold us captive, and therefore, shape our attempts to live free. In other words, we must first think differently before we can really make progress in this journey.
Real progress calls for not just new thoughts but new ways to use our minds and new ways to see ourselves and the journey ahead. It is these new thought processes and new perspectives that make this book unlike any other.
Grab Bob's book here:http://bobhamp.com/product/think-differently-live-differently-book/
In the first half of this book, you will find a roadmap to changing your eyes and your ears, and as a result changing every other step. Like obtaining a brand new prescription for your corrective lenses, these chapters will bring many things into new focus.
With a new way of thinking, the second half of this book then provides the next several steps on the journey. You will find yourself becoming more and more you at every step along the way.
If you are ready for real change, in ways you have yet to imagine, dive into the parable that is the skeleton of this journey, and take your first step.
“…as he paused to take it all in, he was struck by another thought: he had a choice to make … He had to choose between the familiar reality his mind knew and the unknown truth that resonated in his heart.”
There have been times in each of our lives where we have felt alone in a large crowd of people. The desire of our hearts are to feel connected and feel like we belong somewhere, but all too often it can be a struggle to find our group of friends where we can just be ourselves.
There are people all around us that are hurting and broken, praying and hoping that someone will stop and notice them. Are we interruptible? Are we so focused on our own agenda that we miss when our brothers and sisters are praying for a friend?
Join Amy Ford for a special broadcast as she interviews her oldest son, Jess Ford who is starting his senior year in high school along with his close friend Abram Deprang who just graduated high school and is soon to start his first year of college at Kings University. Tune in to hear how difficult it is in today's society to not sacrifice your beliefs while finding a place to fit in and belong. You will LOVE this! Share with your friends! Be encouraged to allow the Holy Spirit to interrupt us so that we can help others and be aware when God brings us people that need a friend!
Whether you are a teen girl that is getting ready to date or a young woman wanting to save sex for marriage, or maybe a young woman facing a painful situation wanting hope for a new day, you will want to listen to this podcast!
Join Amy as she discusses with author and speaker, Jennifer Strickland as they chat about her newest book, 21 Myths Even Good Girls Believe about Sex and share the myths, truths, and practical ways you can enjoy the pursuit of passion and purity.
Jennifer is the founder of U R More Ministries that teaches people their value, identity, and purpose in Christ. For 15 years Jennifer worked as a professional model, but the superficial world of modeling left her disillusioned and lost. While living in Europe, she found Christ, and left modeling in search of a more authentic life. Since then, she has become a dynamic conference speaker and has written several books and Bible studies, helping women of all ages find their true value.
To purchase Jennifer's book, click here and to watch a book trailer, check out her website!
Vulnerability inspires joy and a sense of belonging in our world when we can finally talk about thins that may have been buried for so long. Bringing our stuff out of the darkness and into the light is when Jesus can heal all of those places that need His touch.
Join Amy as she discusses with her friend Irini Fambro about what happens AFTER vulnerability. Being brave enough to show our vulerability isn't the ultimate goal, but it's the beginning of a journey to allow God in to those places. We have to press through the process - layer by layer, where freedom is at the core of the healing. Pushing through for healing and wholeness after we open up allow us to fly!
Take a listen and share with your friends!
When life gets hard, sometimes we go to different places and things to look for what will fill our hearts - that void that never seems to get filled up. Whether it's food, unhealthy relationships, shopping, medicine or just anything - we are searching for God's joy in all the wrong places but when we just lay all of those down and go to God, He will fill us with so much joy!
Join Amy and her friend Crissy as they chat about how she not only became content with God but He also filled her with a joy that she would never be able to get elsewhere. Listen in and share with your friends!
Sometimes we can know in our head how much God loves us. We have heard the voices over and over and we know what His word says ... but even then, sometimes we don't KNOW it in our hearts. We haven't received His love and walk fully in knowing we are daughters and sons of a King that loves us so very much.
Join Amy as she talks with Embrace Grace alumni, Ruby Gerena as she shares about her Embrace Grace experience and the journey of getting to know the Lord in more intimate ways. The closer she walked with Him, the bigger she felt the joy, confidence and love that only comes from her heavenly Father.
Tune in today and share with your friends about how God is changing hearts and lives through Embrace Grace!
The BraveLove organization understands that adoption is not for everyone. Ideally no one wants to separate mother from child. So often the brave act of placing a baby for adoption is viewed in a negative light, when in reality it is a selfless, difficult, and loving act a birth mother can make for her child. They aim to invite and empower women to choose adoption when faced with an unplanned pregnancy.
Tune in to the podcast today and listen as Amy Ford sits down with Laura and Leigh of the BraveLove org about how brave and heroic birth moms are for choosing to place their baby with a loving family through adoption. They are on a mission to spark a pro-adoption movement and to change the way the culture thinks about adoption so that it's normalized as a common path for those in unplanned pregnancies. Through the creation and distribution of compelling media and messaging, they aim to show how adoption can be amazing acts of love and bravery.
To check out more of what BraveLove is doing - read more on their website www.BraveLove.org
In This With You is a nonpolitical nonprofit that builds helpful online resources, conversation, and community for those experiencing crisis pregnancies, those who have chosen abortion in their past, and those who just want to offer practical assistance, grace, and love to their friends in need.
Join Amy as she chats with Jake about how they believe you are called and are able to significantly help our friends in need in these situations. In October of 2016, In This With You will then help us start a different conversation, equip us with great online resources, and guide us to cultivate friendships of support so that we can make a difference in the lives of those who really need us.
You will love Jake's heart to help these women! Check out the podcast and the website of www.InThisWithYou.org!
Most of us feel God calling us to something more, something specific that is uniquely ours to offer. When we feel the weight of that calling, we often don’t know what it is or what to do about it.
Join Amy as she discusses Identity with Pastor Allan Kelsey, author of ID - Identity Reveals Destiny and discover the unique life mission God has for you—because once you know it, you’ll have the confidence to take the next step toward your destiny. Imagine the sense of purpose that will come with knowing what you’re on this earth to do! If we are all confidently operating in our strengths and gifts along with partnering with God on his destiny He has for us, we can change the world!
We all have natural weaknesses toward certain behaviors and areas where we need to “break loose” in order to experience freedom in our lives. While we are always responsible for our own decisions and choices that we make, that doesn’t rule out the fact that we are heavily influenced by our family of origin and the environments where we grew up.
Tune into the Embrace Grace podcast today as Amy chats with author and pastor, Linda Godsey about her latest book, Origins. You will discover the essential key to your freedom. On this show they discuss how the book presents a well-defined plan on how to break free from generational patterns and see restoration of lives and families. In this show they talk about topics such as such as:
- Discovering family baggage
- How spiritual genetics transmit
- Breaking generational patterns
- How to be empowered to succeed and experience the blessing
Tune into the podcast, share this with your friends, rate this podcast on itunes and purchase Linda's book, Origins on Amazon today!
Tune into the podcast this week as Amy discusses all things new at Embrace Grace lately! She chats with a new staff member, Christy Bolling, Groups Developer about exciting things that have launched or are coming up soon. Learn more about Christy and who she is as well as hearing about Amy's new book, A Bump in Life Study Guide. This book is a great resource for any single moms that need hope and encouragement in the season they are in. Also, we are so pumped about our brand new online store that just went LIVE! We have the cutest products at Embrace Grace!
Grab Amy's newest book and shop the adorable new items in the store here!
Millions of women have been sexually abused in some way, but many stay silent, while the pain from a broken heart worsens with time. Join Amy as she talks with her guest, Polly Wright about her story and her latest book, Cherished Revised.
As a young college student, Polly found herself taking off her clothes for men and money. But like ninety-five percent in the American sex industry, she didn't find herself there by accident. Nothing happens in a vacuum.
Sexually abused at a young age...It's the story of a teenager, finding herself in an abortion clinic. It's the story of a young wife and mother, masking her pain in a bottle.
But it's more than that, it's the story of how a very real enemy waged a very real war against this incredible woman from the time she was very small. It's the story of how the lies he spoke to her became her truths, leading her into the darkest of places and the most difficult of times.
And it's a story of a woman and her Savior. It's the story of how He rescues and saves, pulling us out of the miry pit in which we all find our selves. It's a story of healing, truth and discovery. It's a story of God's voice and of a woman becoming all she was created to be.
When you follow Polly's story you will have the opportunity to write the foundations of your own Cherished Story. Newly included, after every chapter are journal prompts designed to help you discover who God truly created you to be. Whether your story is similar to her's or very different, this book will challenge and encourage you to become free and know your true identity and value. Purchase Polly's book and share this podcast with your friends!
God designed males and females for one another, so why do we rarely trust the motives of the opposite gender? Do we really believe we can have harmony and work in partnership while enjoying one another?
The enemy has lied to us, and we are frustrated, confused, and exhausted. Many men don't think women want them, yet they are wired by God to need to provide for and protect females. Often women are afraid to admit they want and need male masculinity in their lives and are exhausted and aching for the provision and protection men were created to extend them. God wants to offer freedom to both genders by offering understanding so we can courageously take our positions and thrive!
Join Amy as she interviews Cristie Penn, author of Keys of Truth: Unlocking God's Design for the Sexes, as Cristie explains in simple terms the keys of truth God taught her and how she and her husband used them to turn frustration and bitterness into understanding, love, and respect. Learn how to partner with God by courageously taking your position with and for the opposite gender in your life. No matter the age or stage of life you're in, this book will help you discover how to walk freely and confidently in the position God created you for!
To purchase this awesome book, go to keysoftruth.org!
Join Amy and Kerrie as they discuss Kerrie Oles Ministries and their latest outreach to help women going through difficult seasons. Kerrie inspires us to just let Jesus take your hand. No matter who you are or where you’ve been, you’ve experienced pain in your life. He can heal it, bringing life where there was death. Jesus brought life everywhere he went; it seems He couldn’t help it. And not only did He raise dead bodies, He sought out those who were dead on the inside. He took their hands, and He healed them. He revived them. Let Him take your hand. Let Him pull you to your feet—alive.
Kerrie's ministry goes beyond the four walls of the church and reaches women no matter where their walk is with the Lord. You will laugh and love hearing about her latest adventures!
For more information on Kerrie's ministry, go to www.KerrieOles.com
Join Amy as she chats with her guest, Karol Ladd who is the President of Engage which offers discussion-based parenting groups for men and women in areas affected by poverty or adversity. Their vision is to encourage and inspire parents across the nation to engage with their children in a loving way, and to equip their children to discover their God-given gifts and talents. Engage provides curriculum and trains volunteers discussion leaders to serve at a variety of community outreach programs and schools.
Karol Ladd is known as “the Positive Lady.” Her heart’s desire is to inspire women with a message of lasting hope and Biblical truth. Karol is open, honest and real in both her speaking and her writing. Formerly a teacher, Karol is the best-selling author of over 35 books including The Power of a Positive Mom and her newest book, Becoming a Woman of the Word.
You will not want to miss this podcast!
Whether you are a young woman, brother, boyfriend, mom, or dad who loves his daughter, you will love this book and conversation on this podcast! For so many of us, our concept of love and sex comes from culture and tradition, not what the heart of Scripture actually teaches. unashamed has a beautiful way of cutting through the religious rhetoric and sheds a light on God’s heart. This message is a profound tool to help girls find freedom and release them from being fearful of their own sexuality. Tune in and hear Tracy and Amy talk about these important topics like love, sex, dating, nakedness and faith!
Come take a fresh look at dating for a new generation of young women. This conversation will encourage you as Tracy shares grace infused insight, wisdom, laughter and liberating truth.
To purchase Tracy's book, Unashamed, purchase on Amazon today!
Is life merely about arriving at your destination, hoping to enjoy it someday? Before walking through the depths - of despair, as well as the Savior's love - that is exactly what Marsha Day believed. But then she entered her own unexpected depths while delivering premature twins at 26 weeks who desperately needed healing, discovering that her son, Brexton, had suffered tremendous brain damage at birth and had also been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and living with the aftermath of a traumatic event which left Brexton unresponsive and wholly dependent for six years.
Join Marsha as she shares with Amy her story of hope spanning a ten-year journey of healing. Discover how God answered her prayers in unexpected ways. Encounter beauty as faith, hope, and the goodness of God collide even in the depths of pain and suffering ... in the waiting.
To purchase Marsha's copy of her book, In the Waiting, go to www.BrextonsHouse.com - it's SO good!
In 2008, God dreamed down an idea into our hearts at a Pink Impact Conference. Embrace Grace was set into motion and every Pink Impact Conference after that, God would keep the dream alive but something significant would happen, maybe it was a year of healing, a year of restoration, a year for worship to Him or a year for dreaming. Every year something awesome happened - and we can't WAIT to see what God does this year in 2016!
Join Amy and Pastor Jan Greenwood as they share about being Crowned for Greatness and how God wants us all to know that He has equipped us with everything we need to live out the dreams that He has placed in our hearts. Jan is the author of Women at War and is the best encourager in the world!
For more information on the Pink Impact Conference on May 13-14 and to purchase tickets, go to the Pink Impact website!
There are over seven billion people in the world today. Why is it that so many of us still feel alone, forgotten, or abandoned? We long to be noticed, loved, and protected. We spend countless hours filling the emptiness with our careers and outside activities; and yet at the end of the day we still feel like orphans; our hearts cry out for a sense of belonging.
Join in on the podcast today as Amy chats with the author of No Longer an Orphan, Dana Stone as she reveals God's desire to give us a sense of belonging. This book shares twenty-seven distinct character traits of God that will bring clarity and understanding to the truth that we are never alone. Dana real-life testimony will inspire each of us to fully embrace and understand God's true capacity to love, nurture, and protect us.
Click here to order No Longer an Orphan: Never Abandoned Never Alone by Dana Stone.
"Jesus often went away from people to pray. And one of the greatest joys of your life will be the uninterrupted time you spend with your heavenly Father. The best way to make sure you have that time is to intentionally establish a place to pray. Make it a sacred place, set apart, and safe. If you are willing to make this small move, I promise that the Lord will meet you there face-to-face. You will have conversations, revelations, and answers to your prayers. I know you will grow from that special place. You don’t need a designated set-apart place to meet with God. But trust me, you will want one." - Mary Jo Pierce
Tune into the podcast to hear Mary Jo Pierce discuss with Amy her Prayer Chair and her new book, Adventures in Prayer. You will not want to miss this one!
Mary Jo Pierce is the pastor of Prayer & Intercession at Gateway. Her new book, Adventures in Prayer, will be released on March 15 and will be available in the Gateway Bookstore and Mardel. To learn more about Pastor Mary Jo, visit maryjopierce.com.
If you've had an abortion in your past, God wants to heal your heart. He has healed so many women that have suffered an infant loss through abortion, and there's hope for you too. Maybe that's been a secret that you have never shared with anyone ... but we want you to know that God is a good God and He wants to walk through the healing process with you.
Join Debbie Burrows as she shares with Amy how God healed her heart through an abortion recovery group. By going through a healing support group, you can meet other women that have a similar story and you will realize you are not alone. These support groups can look many ways and you can find the right fit for you - whether it's one on one mentoring, weekly classes with a group or even retreat healing weekends!
Check with your local church or pregnancy center to find a healing class to get plugged into today!
By the seventh day
God had finished his work.
On the seventh day
he rested from all his work.
God blessed the seventh day.
He made it a Holy Day
Because on that day he rested from his work,
all the creating God had done. - Genesis 2:2-3
Rest is a command from heaven - so what does that look like in modern day? Listen as Mary Jo Pierce, Gateway's Pastor of Prayer and Intercession shares how her life changed once she embraced Shabbat in her home. Hear her and Amy share about if all Christian families imparted rest into their families lives, this could change the dynamic of our families, our communities and our world.
We have started the process of praying about what a dads program could look like in Embrace Grace. We know the importance to reach the baby dads and we want to be able to connect with them in a way that they need. We want to empower them and help them see how their impact on their child's life can affect their own child's life as well as generations after.
Hear Ryan Ford and his perspective on finding out at 22 years old that he was going to be a dad, and the thoughts and emotions he felt through the journey into fatherhood. His life changed when he laid eyes on his baby boy.
The world needs more dads! Tune in to the podcast today and share with friends!
Here at Embrace Grace, we believe that birth moms are heroes! Join Amy as she sits with Abby and hears her amazing story of choosing adoption for her son and what God did in her life through the entire process. Abby's story is full of miracles throughout - you will love hearing about it!
Tune in today and be inspired by Abby's bravery!
A Valentine's Special! Does your marriage need a spark? Tune in to the Embrace Grace podcast show for a Marriage Special show! We know a lot of marriages some time need a spark - but why not keep the spark going by being creative in the romance department? Amy's guest, Tracy Levinson, author of her new and upcoming book, Unashamed, has SO many great ideas on how to keep the fire burning in the romance department!
To connect with Tracy, check out her website www.TracyLevinson.com for even more ideas to strengthen your marriages!
Shame...who hasn't experienced it? Shame can so easily become toxic. Listen to this passage in Jeremiah 31. "I was ashamed of my past, my wild unruly past. Humiliated, I beat on my chest. Will I ever live this down?"
Shame can feel overwhelming, partly because it high-jacks our brain.
Brene Brown says the solution for shame is vulnerability and courage. Verbalizing shame attacks to safe people is so redemptive. God encourages us to confess to one another and to bring those shameful feelings into connection and community. He also wants us to experience his feelings he has for each of us.
"Oh! Ephram is my dear, dear son, my child in whom I take pleasure! Every time I mention his name, my heart bursts with longing for him! Everything in me cries out for him. Softly and tenderly I wait for him."
Can you hear the passionate love God that has for you? He longs for you! Shame, whatever the cause does not cut you off from Him. He delights in you!
The valuable lesson that Nancy unpacks with Amy Ford in this podcast is that no matter your history or how shame has kidnapped your heart, we can find hope in the truth that God delights in you, His heart bursts with longing for you, He waits for your return.
Shame cuts all of us off from love.
Let the warmth of his love banish toxic shame from your life! Tune in to hear more from Nancy about God's love!
Nancy Houston is a Townsend Leadership Director for John Townsend's Leadership Program. She leads groups in New York and Texas. She loves to help people reach their full potential by empowering and equipping them to be fully alive. Through connection and community, the program provides a safe structure for people to grow and develop their personal leadership skills. Limitations are removed and new possibilities emerge. Nancy is a licensed and professional counselor with a certification as a Christian Sex Therapist.
For more information on Nancy and what she's up to, follow her facebook page!
Becoming someone who finds their worth in Christ alone requires more than just looking like you have it all together. Though many things will try to define who you are, there is only One who truly can. Your past, your job, or the expectations of others are no longer things that have to define your value or your purpose.
Tune into the Embrace Grace podcast with Amy Ford and her guest Courtney Cohen! Using the ancient practice of refining gold to illustrate, Courtney guides you through the journey of releasing false identities which have held you captive and embracing your genuine identity, now found in Christ.
You don't have to have it all together. You just need to know the One who does! Discover that as you come to intimately know God, your Creator, you will then come to know who He always intended you to be! Grab Courtney's book on Amazon, it is SO good!!! Refining Identity by Courtney Cohen
For Courtney Cohen, everything comes down to two questions: Who is God? And, who has He designed us to be? Whether she’s writing, speaking, or homeschooling her children, these questions propel her forward. Author of Refining Identity, Courtney passionately pursues helping others come to know the I AM as their closest Friend. She’s married to Steve, her most radical supporter, who also keeps her real. They have two children who, simultaneously, bless her socks off and keep her on her toes. Stay in touch with Courtney at her blog, IAM.NowFound.org.
It's Sanctity of Life week and we will be Marching for Life in Washington D.C. among hundreds of thousands of people that have a heart to save babies and love on the moms. Tune into the podcast today as Amy chats with Destiny Herndon De La Rosa of New Wave Feminists about the March and Destiny's amazing testimony of life. We love her stance on pro-life feminism. Her heart for others is contagious and you will love the show today!
"Destiny is a jewel who empowers and captivates her audience. She offers a fresh and young perspective to the Pro-Life movement that is desperately needed. Destiny is changing the world!"-Amy Ford, Embrace Grace
Check out Destiny's website at New Wave Feminism!
Have you ever made New Years resolutions and then ended up feeling bad about not measuring up to your own list? Have you ever noticed, especially when it comes to things like losing weight, that you may not even know anyone who has kept the weight long-term off by following "rules." Could there be a a more gentle, positive, delightful, and more winsome approach to discovering change for your life?
Join Amy Ford with her guest, Tracy Levinson as she shares about a fun concept that Tracy came up with called "Bucket List parties" - a time where you and your friends come together and share hopes and desires. One of the questions you might ask each other is, "If you were free to dream without fear or judging your own desires as silly, shallow, unattainable, selfish...truly free to dream...what would make your heart happy, if it occurred in your life? Realistic or not, just dream."
Tune into the podcast to hear more about how to ignite change in your own life!
To read more about bucket lists and to check out Tracy's website, click here.
Join Amy Ford and Ryan Ford, our very own Embrace Grace "baby daddy" as they do the very first podcast of 2016! Tune in as they talk about what all God did in 2015 as they laid the foundation of Embrace Grace while fine-tuning their processes and procedures and hear their heart as they share some of the exciting things happening in 2016!
2016 is going to be a great year for Embrace Grace!
It's so bittersweet! We are sad to see Julie moving forward into her next season, serving alongside her husband as they dive into pastoring a church in Southlake, Texas. She has been such a vital part of these past 2 years where we focused on the foundation and getting good at what we do. She helped pave the ground work so that we can grow, grow, grow. We are also very excited to see what God is going to do in her life next. We know God has big plans for her and we will be cheering her on along the way!
I asked her to do a podcast with me as she works her final week at Embrace Grace. She shares her highlights of this past year - what she has loved watching and hearing while working alongside the best Embrace Grace leaders in the country. Tune in and listen to these awesome highlights and if you follow Julie on social media, send her a note to cheer her on as well! You will love today's podcast!
Embrace Grace stories are my favorite! Lindsey has such a powerful story of how God completely turned her life around. Even with being held at gunpoint by a man that wanted her to abort her baby, and she still chose life. During her pregnancy, Lindsey's eyes began opening to a heavenly Father that has loved her whole life. She began to open her heart to Him and let Him heal all the places in her heart that were broken.
Listen in to our podcast and hear Lindsey's glory story of how God completely lifted her out of a pit, set her feet on a rock and gave her a firm place to stand!
One of the Dictionary.com definitions of "Chains" is a series of objects connected one after the other used for various purposes. Another definition says it's something that binds or restrains. A lot of times, the seasons or memories in our life connect one after another. If the season or memory was a negative or traumatic event - no matter how long or short the season was, it can become a chain in our life if we don't learn how to lay down our burdens and even receive healing for any wounds in our heart. We have to forgive when it's hard to forgive. We have to learn from each season and see what God wants to speak to our hearts about each one. Chains can hold us back from experiencing life in the fullness and joy that Got created for each one of us.
One of my friends, Gene McGuire lived a life not only bound in spiritual chains, but also physically as he spent over 30 years behind bars for a crime he never actually committed - only was in the wrong place at the wrong time. His pursuit and determination to become free spiritually, also began to pave the way for freedom physically. As Gene pursued true freedom, God was relentlessly persistent to reach Gene with His unfailing love.
You will be so inspired and amazing hearing this beautiful story! If you want to reach Gene personally, you can find him on his website, http://www.ak4192.com/
As believers, we can help get brand new Christians plugged into the church by not only creating small groups that can integrate them in, but also we can personally take a part in reaching out and inviting them to sit with us. We can invite them into lunch after church or during the week. We can introduce them to other friends. We can reach out and pray for them during the week. People are trying to get connected in but they try church once and then get lost in the shuffle.
Hear Mary Margaret Gibson with Evantell share how the church can grab these new believers off the steps of the church and plant them into a spiritual family where they feel like they are a part and belong. Her passion is contagious on how she wants to reach the world and share the gospel! http://www.evantell.org/
One of my favorite stories is an Embrace Grace testimonial! We love to hear what God does in the hearts of our sweet blooms! Hear the story of a brave mom that found herself with an unplanned pregnancy last year and how she joined a group at The Village Church in Denton, Texas - her life has never been the same since!
Tune into our podcast today to hear how Brittnie obeyed the promptings in her heart to try God and church, and how she was drawn to Jesus in a way she had never experienced before!
Every 30 seconds another child is trafficked. It even happens right here in our states, cities and communities. Join our podcast today as Amy invites Josie Carignan, president and founder of Rescue Her to share about how we can take action to help stop this injustice.
Rescue Her is a non-profit charity that exists to fight human trafficking. They take a stand against injustice, are a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves, and help rescue those that are held captive. They help raise awareness about human trafficking, fight for justice, and are a place that allows those that want to take action to do so.
This podcast is very eye-opening and Josie's story is inspiring how she started this organization and would do it all for just one. She will fight to RESCUE HER!
www.RescueHer.org
When pregnancy centers and churches work together to save mommies and babies, our efforts are multiplied! Pregnancy centers do unique work that only they can do well, pregnancy testing, sonograms, parenting classes, post abortion healing, ministering to moms and much more. We NEED centers in our community. They are on the front lines fighting for lives. When churches come alongside the girls, they can help with the discipling and the hearts of these moms that are craving something MORE for their life and searching for God that will heal all the broken places of their hearts. I love what Reverend Tony Evans once said, "The pregnancy center is the first response team and the church is the hospital."
Listen in to our podcast today as Amy and Heather discuss Loving Beyond HIPAA. Heather is the Director of Development at Life Choices Clinic in Idaho and sees from both the perspective of working at a center as well as leading her own Embrace Grace group at her local church. The love begins at the center and a seed of hope is planted, and the church can water the seed through love and support and sharing the hope of Jesus.
Marissa shares with Amy an amazing story of how love found her at a ranch in California and her life began to transform from the inside out. Love fueled her passion to change the world. Her testimony is an inspiring picture of hope for anyone that has ever felt like they have hit rock bottom, and how we can reach our hand towards the heavens and God will lift us up out of the pit.
Marissa now leads an amazing company called Strong Life where she not only trains adults on heart and fitness, but her passion is to empower pre-teen and teens on identity and sharing about how God sees us - as beautiful and brave daughters. Her Strong Girls camps bring freedom to young girls at a pivotal age where they might begin to start to look at the world for their acceptance, but Marissa uses the opportunity to show how we are already accepted as His.
Check out Marissa's website: STRONG LIFE
Tune in today!
We love real stories and our very own Embrace Grace leaders across the nation have beautiful stories of why they are passionate about loving on these sweet moms and babies. Brandi is the leader of Embrace Grace in Decatur and the way she leads inspires us all that we can love without limits. Join Amy and Brandi as they share how God takes our stories and makes something beautiful out of them. To lead is to serve and Brandi has one of the most amazing servant's hearts.
Even though 1 in 3 women have had an abortion, many feel alone and that they can't talk about the grief they may feel inside. They think about how old that baby would be if alive today and think about the birthdays that are missed. Some feel that they do not have the freedom to pursue healing in the church because they feel they may be judged or shamed - but God does heal and He wants to heal our hearts in every area including abortion.
Tune into the podcast today and hear how a beautiful story of God's redemption and healing from an abortion loss. Alicia Verzi now ministers to women and walks them through post-abortive healing classes at her church in Florida - she shares how amazing God is and how we can be open with our stories. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and our stories!
When traumatic events happen to us as a child, sometimes those events can shape the way we see God, ourself and others. But when we turn to God and let Him begin to strip away the hurt layers around our hearts, we start becoming more and more like Him. We start to see the world the way God does. As the healing process happens, God starts to put our broken hearts together to be whole again. Our faith becomes alive again and we begin to dream again. He makes us new again and our transformation becomes contagious to all of our loved ones as they see what God has done!
Join Angelia Carrigan along with Amy Ford as she shares her amazing testimony of what God has done in her life and how God's grace has brought redemption with her story. She shares the healing process God helped her through and how she is an overcomer. Tune in today and share with your friends!
One of our very own Embrace Grace leaders at Gateway Church shares her story of her unplanned pregnancy. Even though she was scared and worried about her future, she began to see how God was drawing her heart to His throughout the whole process. He took care of her and she felt loved by Him - and then God brought her an amazing husband that she had prayed for.
Listen in today to this powerful testimonial of how God kept touching her with His grace and goodness which led her to repentance and a passionate love for Christ.
When the battles of life are raging, it is easy to feel forsaken and hopeless. Moving forward can seem like a daily fight, with no hope for true healing. When we are hit with tragedy-the loss of a loved one, the loss of a dream, an illness, or a divorce-we need more than a simple pick-me-up. We need someone to walk alongside us and lighten our load. We desperately need the hope of a Savior and Friend.
Join Amy Ford and Kris Power as they discuss how hope can be a mighty weapon. Whether you are facing the battle of your life or are weary from the constant conflicts of daily life, her inspirational journey offers you a refreshing renewal from heartbreak to hope. Without wholeness, we are unable to fully walk on the path that God has prepared for us. Though it may not always be what we planned, that path is full of victory and hope, worthy of a battle cry.
You can follow Kris and her writings HERE.
When children go into foster care, it's important for those babies to get the love and support they need during their time there. But what about the moms that are struggling? A lot of them have had really hard lives and never been taught how to go to God with their hurts and brokenness. Makenzie's heart is to bring families back together again and for the mommy to get the help she needs to get back on her feet.
You will fall in love with her vision for a home for these moms to restore and revive their lives so that they can be the moms they were created to be. Tune in today and hear how to love even when it's hard to love!
When we go through a season that is difficult and painful, we can let go and give it to God. He can take our burdens and make something beautiful out of it. LeeAnn found out her daughter was pregnant and was at first devastated. But she chose to just praise God and allow Him to finish the work that he was already starting in her daughter. God was molding both of their hearts and in the meantime, blessing them with the most beautiful baby boy that changed their life and hearts forever.
LeeAnn Kirkindoll is the Director of Women's Ministry for Prestonwood in Dallas! Hear her story as she shares from a momma's heart perspective. SO GOOD!
Sometimes there are a lot of questions and unknowns when it comes to adoption that a young mother might have. Will I ever see my baby again? Can I choose who raises my child? Will I have any say when it comes to birth or first decisions of life?
Tina Dean with Legacy Adoption shares how each mom has parenting options and they can feel empowered throughout the decision making process. Tune in to hear how brave birth moms are and how they are an inspiration to so many!
http://www.legacyas.com
At Embrace Grace, we believe that birth moms are true heroes. We love that they put their baby first and make a selfless decision to choose life and an amazing family for their baby. The way God weaves these stories together, connecting the birth mom to the adoptive family and how He provides all of their needs, is a beautiful miracle to behold.
Join in on today's podcast and hear Amy Ford chat with Brandi Smith about her story as a birth mom. Years ago, God drew her to choose adoption and now her story touches hundreds of lives as she serves at Heart of Hope Home in Louisiana.
Each of us have such a unique story and journey that we have embarked on - and it's such a beautiful testimony when in the midst of our life, we have a moment where we realize that we can't make it anymore on our own - that we need our heavenly Father. Kelsea is a brand new alumni of Embrace Grace at Gateway Church - she is brave by sharing her story and how her baby brought her closer to the Lord. We are so proud of her and love how God is doing a new thing in her life!
"And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony ... " {Revelation 12:11}
Kathy has a beautiful testimony of helping her daughter walk through a season of an unplanned pregnancy. Flooded with mix emotions, she learned how to lean on God and fully trust that He is in control, and that He was going to bring their family closer together than ever before.
If you have ever been in Kathy's shoes or are currently, tune into this broadcast and hear a story of beauty and restoration! God turns all things for good for those that love Him - He loves us and is for us!
Prepare to be empowered, enlightened and encouraged as you take a journey down a familiar path with a new friend. Join Amy Ford and Kendra Hunt as they find God in every part of life, even between loads of laundry. Kendra has poured a wealth of wisdom in this encouraging book and the nuggets of truth inside are life changing and so relevant no matter what season of life you are in!
You can purchase her book on Amazon today!
We hear sometimes how people are not quite sure what exactly IS an Embrace Grace group? Listen in to hear from one of our Groups Managers and hear what an Embrace Grace group is and how truly fun and easy it is to lead a support group for young moms iwth unplanned pregnancies. Julie not only trains and equips groups across the nation, but she has lead Embrace Grace herself at her own church. If you've ever wondered, we break it down for you! Leading a group inspires a transformation with the brave moms we are loving on, but also the leaders that lead. Listen in today to hear more!
Heather Bourland, wife of 1, mom of 5 and lover of many shares her heart on how 16 years ago she had an unplanned pregnancy. During this season of being scared about her future, God's hand on her never lifted. She fell in love with her heavenly Father and leaned on Him. Things started falling into place and her relationship with the father of the baby was restored. She got married and gave birth to a beautiful baby boy that is a world-changer. Hear about her story of life on our podcast today!
Rob Peabody, co-founder of Awaken Movement shares his heart to go beyond the walls of the church and BE the church everywhere we go. Rob and Amy encourage listeners to step into the calling that God has been preparing for them. The calling and life that Jesus's death and resurrection is inviting them into. Listen in to hear more about how Rob is awakening hearts and inspiring lives from the US to London on how to dream big and love big!
Being a part of Embrace Grace, we get to hear sweet things from the mommas about their hearts as they journey through an unplanned pregnancy. Crissy is a leader in Embrace Grace Gateway Church and all of the brave moms LOVE her. We have interviewed and asked several blooms questions about the feelings they had and we talk about each answer. Join us in learning more about these mommas!
Join in with Kerrie Oles and Amy Ford as they discuss Kerrie's latest book, Revived: From the Me I Used to Be. She dives into that it doesn't matter who we are or where we've been, you have experienced pain in your life. She inspires us how she explains how God desires to heal our broken places and bring life to places in our lives where there is death. www.KerrieOles.com
Our very first podcast shares the heart of Embrace Grace and how the dream all started! We hope that this show inspires you to chase your dream that God has placed in your heart!